1-year Master’s by Research at the School of Applied Psychology and Environmental Research Institute
Summary: Applications are invited for a 1-year Master’s by Research at the School of Applied Psychology and Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork, co-supervised by Dr. Marica Cassarino, Dr. Annalisa Setti and Prof. Frank Crowley.
The MSc by Research in Applied Psychology is funded under the EU Mission Cities “Building Capa-cities” project led by Cork City Council and Dublin City Council, in collaboration with UCC. The objective of Mission Cities is to achieve 100 climate-neutral and smart EU cities and to ensure these cities act as testbeds for innovation in climate action, enabling all European cities to follow suit by 2050.
Building Capacities aims to unlock the capacity for innovation in Cork City by incorporating behavioural science principles in the pursuit of urban sustainable practices.
Background and objectives
Aim of the Master’s: To evaluate the process of implementing and adopting behavioural science skills and principles across different organizational levels of a local authority for the promotion of urban sustainability, with particular interest in the perspective of employees
Research questions:
- What are the knowledge and skills needed by employees of CCC to implement and adopt behavioural science principles in their work area?
- What are the individual and contextual factors (enablers and barriers) influencing adoption and implementation of behavioural science skills and principles in their day-to-day work?
- How are these behavioural skills and principles embedded into training opportunities (micro-credentials) and community interventions (open street)?
Methodology:
- Review of guidance/case studies of implementation of behavioural science skills/principles within public/governmental organisations/agencies.
- Mixed methods process evaluation of implementation of behavioural science skills and principles using the Capa-Cities project as a case study, through the means of secondary data analysis, interviews and surveys.
Through their work, the Master’s student will support the development of training programs that enhance staff capabilities and promote interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaboration, as well as the evaluation of local sustainable transport initiatives.
Note that this MSc by Research requires a high level of in-person engagement and work.
Funding
The MSc by Research position is funded for 12 months. It includes a tax-free stipend of €25,000 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate.
Application Instructions
Start date: 1st July 2025
Eligibility criteria
Essential:
- A 1H1 or 2H1 BA Honours degree (or equivalent) in Applied Psychology, Environmental Psychology, Behavioural Science, or related subject
- A good understanding of psychological models of behaviours
- A strong understanding of both quantitative and qualitative design, data analysis and reporting
- Willingness to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
Desirable:
- An interest in, and understanding of, the application of psychological theory to sustainability and climate-related issues
- Evidence of having completed a research project.
To Apply:
Please send your application to Dr. Marica Cassarino (mcassarino@ucc.ie) with “Capa-cities MSc Research Psychology Application” in the subject line of the email. The deadline is Friday 9th May 2025.
Please attach a single PDF document that contains:
- A cover letter of 1 to 2 pages: Your letter should clearly set out your suitability and motivation for this MSc by Research with reference to your past relevant experience and achievements.
- A CV that includes your relevant experience, undergraduate results, any relevant publications (if applicable) and contact information for two academic referees.
Please contact Dr. Marica Cassarino (mcassarino@ucc.ie) if you have any questions about the position.